TRAVEL agents usually send other people on exotic trips abroad, taking in the sights and soaking up the sun.
But a team of travel agents based in Dorking will head off to Calais tomorrow (Friday), to take part in an international car rally for charity.
The group of four from Kuoni, which has its headquarters in Deepdene Avenue, will not be putting their feet up, however, as they tackle the Travel Trade Crusade for three days, visiting five European countries.
The company's managing director Derek Jones will be joined by employees Laura Daniel, Matthew May and Jemma Purvis as they aim to raise more than £2,000 for two charities.
Speaking to the Advertiser, Mr Jones said: "We are delighted to be taking part in the Travel Trade Crusade.
"This challenge has given us the opportunity to raise awareness and money for our two nominated charities, both of which are very close to our hearts.
"It is lovely to see the travel industry come together for this fun event and I look forward to seeing what challenges the organisers of the rally have in store for us."
The contest, during which points are gained by completing challenges and tallied up on a leader board between the teams, will be contested by 100 people from the travel industry.
The "Kuoni Krusaders" have already gained 20 points for being the first team to raise £1,000, and will receive additional points for completing the challenge in an old Peugeot 406.
Ms Purvis added: "We are all really excited about the rally.
"The big reveal of the car will be amazing; we plan to put grass on the roof, we have a tiger print dash and the car is installed with a sound system of animal noises.
"You won't miss us if we're driving round Dorking."
The team has nominated Bliss, which cares for premature and sick babies, and The Neuroblastoma Society, which supports those with the rare childhood cancer.
Sponsors for the team include Hills Balfour, JL Sports Cars, Six Senses, O&G, Tippett PR and Craghoppers.
You can follow them on their travels on Twitter @KuoniTravelUK, or at their blog www.kuoni.co.uk/blog
To donate to Bliss, visit www.just giving.com/kuonicrusaders
To donate to The Neuroblastomy Society, visit www.justgiving.com/kuonicrusaders2
